The Hermiston City Council unanimously approved a proclamation presented by the Hermiston Rotary Club Monday to recognize Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, as the International Day of Peace.
In 1981, the United Nations proclaimed that Sept. 21st of each year be observed as the International Day of Peace and the day be “devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of Peace both within and among all nations and peoples.” In 2001, the proclamation was expanded to include a day of global ceasefire and non-violence, inviting all nations to honor a cessation of hostilities for the duration of the Day.
In Hermiston, the proclamation encourages government departments and agencies, organizations, schools, places of worship and individuals to commemorate the International Day of Peace. Observance through community service projects, cultural exhibits and performances, a moment of silence, or ringing of bells are suggestions to share the universal message of “May Peace Prevail on Earth” at noon on that day.
Rotary International has long been advocates for a world of peace. Since 1917, when The Rotary Foundation was established with the mission “to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty”, Rotary has focused efforts to build Peace.
In addition to presenting the proclamation the Hermiston City Council, Steve Williams, president of the Hermiston Rotary Club, said the club is looking at more ways for the club to be involved in this area and will seek to become the 13th “Peace Builder” club in District 5100. As a Peace Builder Club, the Hermiston Rotary Club will be advocates for peace locally and around the world.
People interested gathering more information about Rotary or the International Day of Peace, are encouraged to contact Steve Williams at (541) 701-1320
